90 percent of India excluded from system: Rahul Gandhi fresh push for caste census | VIDEO

New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized the importance of conducting a nationwide caste census, stating that 90% of the population remains disconnected from the current system. Speaking at the "Samvidhan Samman Sammelan," Gandhi stressed that this demographic possesses immense skills and knowledge but lacks access to opportunities and representation.

Gandhi pointed out that the caste census serves as the foundation for Congress's policy-making approach. “For the Congress, the caste census is a tool for creating policies that address the realities of India. Without understanding the numbers, we cannot craft effective strategies,” he said. He further compared the caste census to the Indian Constitution, which he described as a guiding framework under attack. “A socio-economic survey, an institutional survey, and a caste census will be our second guide to shaping policies,” Gandhi added.

#WATCH | Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says, "We will conduct a caste census and the 50 per cent cap on the reservation which I don't accept will be removed...First, we should have the data before us regarding the participation of different… pic.twitter.com/z1AQivs3ff

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Congress on the Dalit, OBCs, Tribal 

The Congress leader also underlined the importance of gathering data on various communities—Dalits, OBCs, tribals, women, minorities, and general castes—to ensure fair representation and participation. He argued that without proper representation, protecting the Constitution becomes impossible. Taking a direct dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi accused him of emulating monarchial practices.

He added that those who believe the caste census can be blocked or the reservation ceiling of 50% cannot be altered are mistaken. "This is inevitable—it will happen," he asserted. Gandhi wrapped up by urging the Prime Minister to heed the public demand for a caste census. “The people have spoken, and it’s time to implement their wishes,” he said.